Homeowners, Renters, and Vehicle Owners: File Insurance Claims Promptly After Helene’s Storm

If you have property or vehicle insurance and experienced damage from Hurricane Helene, it’s important to file your insurance claims as soon as possible. Insurers offer mobile apps and online portals to help expedite the process, and they are preparing to send claims teams to affected areas.

Steps to Take:

1. File Immediately: The sooner you file, the faster your claim can be processed.
2. Make Temporary Repairs: The Insurance Information Institute advises making temporary repairs to prevent further damage. Document these repairs with photos and save all receipts.
3. Ask Important Questions:
   • Is your damage covered under your policy?
   • What is the deadline to file a claim?
   • How long will it take to process the claim?
   • Do you need estimates for repairs?
4. Record Your Claim Number: Keep track of your claim number for easier communication with your insurer.
5. Document Conversations: Take notes during all conversations with your insurer, including any monetary amounts discussed. Record the date, time, and the representative’s name.
6. Accurately Describe Damages: Safely assess your property and document any damage with photos. These images, even if taken with your phone, will be useful when filing your claim.
7. Prepare for the Adjuster or Proof of Loss: Insurers will send a proof of loss form or an adjuster to assess your damages. Start gathering information about lost or damaged items, including purchase dates, costs, and receipts.
8. Retain Damaged Items: Don’t discard any damaged items until an adjuster has seen them.
9. Track Living Expenses: If you’re displaced, keep receipts for expenses like hotel stays and meals. Many homeowner policies cover these costs.
10. Be Cautious of Scams: Beware of unsolicited offers for repairs or individuals claiming to be insurance adjusters.
11. Federal Disaster Relief (If Uninsured): If you don’t have insurance, you can apply for federal disaster assistance at DisasterAssistance.gov, via the FEMA app, or by calling 1-800-621-3362. Disaster assistance can help with temporary housing, home repairs, and other storm-related expenses.

Water vs. Wind: What’s Covered?

Hurricanes can cause both wind and water damage, but it’s important to understand what your insurance covers:

• Homeowners Insurance: Covers wind damage, but typically not flood damage, including storm surge. Flood insurance is required for water-related damage.
• Windstorm Policies: Separate windstorm policies may be needed in coastal states. North and South Carolina, for example, allow insurers to charge special deductibles for wind damage.
• Car Insurance: Generally covers vehicle damage from the storm.
• Renters Insurance: May cover wind, lightning, and some water damage, but structural damage is the landlord’s responsibility. If you’re displaced, your policy may cover temporary housing costs.

As numerous claims will be filed in the aftermath of the storm, it may take some time for an adjuster to reach you and assess your damages. While patience is important, it’s also crucial to remain proactive.